Habitat Selection and Reproductive Success of Cerulean Warblers in Indiana

Abstract

We studied the breeding habitat of Cerulean Warblers (Dendroica cerulea) in southern Indiana in the Ohio River Valley in 2002–2003 to identify similarities and differences in habitat characteristics compared to breeding habitats reported for this species in other geographical regions. Ten 259-ha study plots were surveyed for Cerulean Warblers and territories were mapped using locations of perched, singing males. We measured slope and vegetation characteristics including canopy height and cover, ground cover, number of shrubs and shrub species, number of trees, DBH, and number of snags at Cerulean Warbler territories and non-use sites. Habitat characteristics associated with Cerulean Warbler territories compared to non-use sites were higher canopy height (28 m) and cover (84%), larger trees (>38 cm DBH), higher slope (11°), fewer number of trees (30), and fewer trees between 3 and 23 cm DBH. Calculated Mayfield estimate of nest productivity (0.165) was lower compared to Mississippi Alluvial Valley sites (0.242).